At the Orthopaedic Institute of Dayton we pride ourselves in providing quality care when diagnosing a patient. This may include ordering additional tests to help us determine a diagnosis or rule out pathology. One of the tests commonly ordered for sports related injuries is an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).
MRI is a means of "seeing" inside of the body. Unlike X-Ray and computed tomography (CT), MRI requires specialized equipment that uses a powerful, constant magnetic field, radiofrequency, and dedicated equipment to create very clear pictures of internal body structures. There is no ionizing radiation to the patient when having an MRI.
During the MRI examination, the patient is placed within the MR "scanner". While in the magnet, powerful physics are at play manipulating tiny subatomic particles that are present in most of the body's tissues (Hydrogen atoms). Radiofrequency energy is applied (via a transmitter) causing these protons to produce energy, which in turn produces a signal that is picked up by a receiver (commonly referred to as a coil) within the scanner. With the use of the magnet, radiofrequency and a specialized computer system, a signal is encoded and an image of specific interest is produced.
The MRI Technologist will greet you and prepare you for your study (scan). In the process, she will make sure that you are safe and able to have your MRI. You’ll be placed on a table which will slide into the magnet. She will position you accordingly for the scan and will place a coil (transmitter) either next to or around the body structure of interest. Your scan time will vary depending on the scan ordered, the anatomical structure itself and the potential pathology. Scan times normally vary between thirty and forty-five minutes. While you are being scanned, the technologist will be conducting the scan at a control panel. You will be allowed to listen to music (an FM radio station of your choice) during your scan and the technologist will talk to you throughout your scan to make sure you are comfortable. It is our job here at the Orthopaedic Institute of Technology to ensure that you have a very pleasant experience with us.
How to prepare for the MRI examination
Because MRI works with the use of a very powerful magnet, patient awareness and preparation is the number one concern. Unless your doctor specifically requires it, a change in diet is not necessary. Continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise directed. During the exam, you will not be allowed to wear any metallic material, this includes but is not limited to watches, jewelry, hairpins and clips, clothing with a zipper(s), and any other metallic material in clothing (including a bra with under wire or hooks in the back), wallet, change, money, credit cards, cell phones, beepers, hearing aids, pens, keys, and batteries. So as to prevent any metallic objects from being attracted by the powerful magnet, or which can create an imbalance in the homogenous field, it is best to dress in clothing that has no metallic material at all.
Prior to the exam you will be asked to fill out a safety questionnaire to ensure your safety while being scanned. In addition, the technologist will review your questionnaire and may ask additional questions. If you have questions regarding your scan, the safety concerns or anything else related to your MRI appointment, please feel free to check with the MRI technologist or the scheduler prior to your exam.
After your scan is completed, your images will be archived on a special disk. They will then be forwarded to our reading radiologist group, where a specially trained radiologist in MRI will interpret the scans for your physician and provide a report to him within twenty-four to forty-eight hours. While you are here, a follow-up appointment will be made for you with your physician to review your test results.
After the MRI is complete, you will have no restrictions and can go about your normal activities, unless specified otherwise by your ordering physician. As of to date, an MRI scan without the use of contrast does not have any known side effects. (Our facility does not administer Contrast MRI). However, if you should have any concerns or experience any side effects that are alarming to you, please give one of the following numbers a call.
MRI technologist: 937-309-0645 ext. 278 Yolanda
Ordering physician: 937-309-0645 (ask for their appropriate secretary)
Medical Society: 937-463-1579
We look forward to taking care of you while you are at our facility and will do our best to help make your visit with us a safe and pleasurable one. Thank you for allowing us to participate in your care.